2026 Nissan Leaf's Friendly Price Actually Makes This EV Less Expensive Than in 2011

Desmond Milligan · August 19

The Nissan Leaf is entering its third generation, and the 2026 model will start at $31,485.
Despite getting a considerable overhaul, the third-gen Leaf's new price keeps it less expensive than it was when the model first launched in 2011.
The redesigned Leaf will begin arriving at dealerships later this fall, with Nissan planning to announce pricing and details on the entry-level S trim later.

After two generations of awkward styling and meager range figures, the Nissan Leaf is being ushered into its third generation with the 2026 model year. Despite huge improvements in both the styling and performance departments, the pricing on the Leaf doesn't change much, with the S+ trim carrying a starting price tag of $31,485.

Nissan

In fact, while the 2026 model is slightly more expensive than the entry trim for the 2025 model (at $29,280), it's still cheaper than the Leaf was when it debuted in 2011. The S+, along with the two trims above it, is equipped with a 75-kWh battery and a single 214-hp electric motor driving the front wheels.

The steps between trims are somewhat large, but they're offset by a bevy of niceties. The 2026 SV+ will start at $35,725. It comes with a set of 18-inch alloy wheels instead of the 18-inch steelies installed on the S+. It also trades out the S/S+ trim's dual 12.3-inch screen setup for dual 14.3-inch displays. Moving up to the Platinum+ brings the starting price to $40,485—another steep jump—but one that includes 19-inch wheels, a dimming panoramic roof, Bose audio, and a hologram effect for the taillights.

2026 Nissan Leaf S+ Nissan

The Leaf could become even more approachable in the near future, too, though at the cost of range and niceties. Nissan confirmed that pricing for the entry-level S trim—which will be situated below the S+—will be announced at a later date. As for the three trims we know are coming for 2026, the automaker confirmed that they'll begin reaching dealerships sometime this fall.

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